The Phillies will have five former players with them at Spring Training but, for the first time since 2001, it will not include Mike Schmidt.

MLB.com's Todd Zolecki reports Schmidt can not make the trip to Clearwater as a field instructor, something he has done every year since 2002. The Phillies released a statement saying "Mike is treating a health issue that requires him to remain near his doctors." The statement did add that Schmidt still plans to visit camp in the middle of March for a marketing appearance.

Schmidt, 64, spent his entire 18-year MLB career with the Phillies and was inducted to the Hall of Fame in 1995.

We certainly wish Schmidt the best and he is in our thoughts and prayers.